The Realme XT, launched in September 2019, aims to capture the mid-range smartphone market with its robust specifications and competitive pricing. Targeted towards budget-conscious users seeking a balance of performance and photography capabilities, the XT is built around a Qualcomm Snapdragon 712 processor and features a camera setup that includes a 64 MP main lens for high-quality images.
This review draws on multiple sources including GSMArena and Geekbench, which provide benchmarks and in-depth performance analyses. User reviews also contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the device's strengths and weaknesses, ensuring an honest appraisal based on real-world usage.
Overall, the Realme XT excels in areas such as photography and performance for its price range, offering a reliable user experience. However, it does fall short in terms of software maturity and benchmarking performance compared to higher-end competitors.
How well does the Realme XT perform?
The Realme XT is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 712 processor, achieving a single-core score of 446 and a multi-core score of 1372 on Geekbench 6. These scores suggest decent performance for day-to-day tasks and moderate gaming, although it lags behind higher-end models with more powerful chipsets like the Snapdragon 888.
In gaming benchmarks such as 3DMark, the XT scored 2153 in Sling Shot Extreme, demonstrating its capability in handling graphics but highlighting that it is still not on par with flagship devices.
What are the camera capabilities like?
The standout feature of the Realme XT is its camera setup, boasting a 64 MP quad-camera system that impresses by capturing detailed images even in low light conditions. This performance is praised by users, making the XT a good choice for photography enthusiasts on a budget.
Additionally, the camera's HDR capabilities and the performance of the secondary sensors contribute positively to the overall photographic experience, though it may struggle in very low-light situations compared to more expensive alternatives.
How does the battery life hold up?
The Realme XT is equipped with a sizeable battery, but user reports vary regarding its longevity. While it can comfortably last a day of moderate use, varying screen brightness and usage patterns mean that some users may find it lacking under intensive conditions.
In terms of charging speed, it supports VOOC charging, allowing for quicker top-ups, enhancing its practicality for busy users who require fast recharge times.
Is the software experience satisfactory?
The phone runs on Color OS 6 based on Android 9, which has been noted for its smoothness but criticized for being less intuitive compared to rival skins. Users have indicated that while the software performs well, it lacks the polish and features seen in more mature systems such as Samsung's One UI.
Fingerprint registration can feel slow initially, but the performance improves once configured. On the downside, the face unlock feature, although available, uses a regular camera, making it less secure than fingerprint unlocking options.
Is the Realme XT a good value for money?
In terms of price-to-performance ratio, the Realme XT presents a compelling offering with its competitive specifications, particularly in photography and everyday task performance. However, it faces stiff competition from devices like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy A50, which also provide good overall performance and camera quality.
While the XT is a strong contender, prospective buyers should weigh its performance against rivals that might offer better software experiences or hardware specifications.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ 64 MP quad-camera system excels in low-light photography.
- ✅ Decent performance with Snapdragon 712, suitable for everyday tasks.
- ✅ Fast VOOC charging technology enhances usability for busy users.
- ✅ Good build quality with a premium design aesthetic.
- ❌ Software experience may be less refined compared to competitors.
- ❌ Performance lags behind flagship models in benchmark tests.
- ❌ Face unlock feature is less secure as it uses a regular front camera.
- ❌ Battery life can be inconsistent under heavy usage.
How It Compares to the Competition
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro — Offers a similar camera and strong performance at a competitive price.
- Samsung Galaxy A50 — Known for better software support and user interface.
- Realme 5 Pro — Similar specs but typically priced lower, making it a direct alternative.
- OnePlus Nord N10 5G — Slightly better performance and 5G capabilities.
Who Should Buy This & Who Should Skip It
Buy it if: The Realme XT is ideal for users who prioritize camera performance and have a moderate budget. It's suitable for photography enthusiasts who want good features without breaking the bank.
Skip it if: If you value a software experience with a refined user interface and seamless performance, or if you need the latest smartphone features like 5G, you may find alternatives like the Xiaomi or Samsung offerings more suitable.
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